Passionflower

History

Named by Spanish missionaries who saw the geometry of the passion of Christ in the flower's crown of filaments.

Folklore

Southern gardeners call it 'maypop' — for the sound the ripe fruit makes underfoot.

Season

Flowers in high summer; vines die back and return each spring.

Growing

Full sun. A vigorous climber — give it a strong trellis or arch to scramble up.

Culinary use

Leaves and flowers steep into a very gentle floral tea. The ripe fruit is edible when yellow and soft.

Flavor

Faintly grassy, mildly floral, whisper-sweet.

Gardening tip

Beloved by native bees and gulf fritillary butterflies.

A small recipe

Passionflower + chamomile evening tea with a spoon of honey.

A gentle note

Best sipped in the evening; may be sedating in larger cups.

Tea pairings

• Sacred Calm
• Moon Garden